Classification, interchangeability, miscibility.
Among the people, oils for the power steering system are distinguished by color. However, the real differences are not in color, but in the composition of oils, their viscosity, type of base, additives. Oils of the same color can be completely different and not even mix. To say that if red oil is poured in, then another red oil can be added is completely wrong. Therefore, use the table at the end of the page.
The three colors of oil are as follows:
1) Red. Dexron family (mineral and synthetic red oils must not be mixed!). There are several types of Dexrons, but they all belong to the ATF class, i.e. class of oils for automatic transmissions (and sometimes power steering)
2) Yellow. The family of yellow power steering oils is most often used in Mercedes.
3) Green. Green oils for power steering (mineral and synthetic green oils cannot be mixed!) are loved by the VAG concern, as well as Peugeot, Citroen and some others. Not suitable for automatic transmissions.
Mineral or synthetic?
Long-standing disputes about which is better - synthetics or mineral water for the power steering system are not appropriate.
The fact is that in the power steering, as nowhere else, there are a lot of rubber parts. Synthetic oils have a worse effect on the resource of rubber parts based on natural rubbers (almost all types of rubbers), due to their chemical aggressiveness. In order to fill synthetic oils into the power steering system, its rubber parts must be designed for synthetic oils and have a special composition.
Attention: rare cars use synthetic oils for power steering! But synthetic oils are often used in automatic transmissions. Pour only mineral water into the power steering system, unless synthetic oil is specifically indicated in the instructions!
In order not to harm the power steering system, you must follow the rules: 1) Yellow and red mineral oils can be mixed; 2) Green oils should not be mixed with either yellow or red oils. 3) Mineral and synthetic oils must not be mixed.
How do automatic transmission oils differ from power steering oils, and why can they be used in power steering?
The table below shows the functions of hydraulic fluids (oils) for power steering (PSF) and automatic transmissions (ATF):
| Oils for power steering (PSF): | Automatic transmission oils (ATF): | |
|
Functions of hydraulic fluid |
1) the liquid acts as a working fluid that transfers pressure from the pump to the piston |
1) the same functions as for power steering fluids |
|
1) friction reducing additives (metal-metal, metal-rubber, metal-fluoroplastic) |
1) the same additives as for power steering oils |
The Dexron family was originally developed for use as hydraulic oils in automatic transmissions (automatic transmissions). Therefore, sometimes these oils are called transmission oils, which causes confusion, since transmission oils used to mean thick oils of the GL-5, GL-4, TAD-17, TAP-15 brands for gearboxes and rear axles with hypoid gears. Hydraulic oils are much thinner than gear oils. It is better to call them ATPs. ATF stands for Automatic Transmission Fluid (literally - Fluid for automatic transmissions - that is, automatic transmissions)
As can be seen from the table above, oils for power steering and oils for automatic transmissions differ only in the presence in the latter of additional additives intended for automatic transmission clutches. But there are no friction clutches in the power steering system. Therefore, from the presence of these additives, no one is hot or cold. This made it possible to calmly fill automatic transmission oils into the power steering system. The Japanese, for example, have long poured the same oils into the power steering as in the automatic transmission.
In fact, if you pour a suitable, high-quality, but non-original oil into the power steering, this will in no way affect its resource and performance. For example, the same ZF pumps run on different vehicles with different manufacturer-approved oils and perform equally well. So yellow oils (Mercedes) and green oils (VAG) are equally good for power steering. The difference is only "in the color of the ink."
At the same time, practice has shown that they cannot be mixed. In some cases, when mixing green and yellow power steering oils, foam appears. Therefore, before using a liquid of a different color, you just need to flush the system!
When mixing mineral Dexrons and yellow power steering oils, no side effects occur. Their additives do not conflict with each other, but simply acquire their concentration in the new mixture and continue to fulfill their role.
To clarify the miscibility of different power steering fluids, we provide the table below. However, the data in it relate only to the use of oils in power steering, but not in automatic transmissions!
First group. This group contains "conditionally mixed" oils. If there is an equal sign between them: then this is the same oil only from different manufacturers - they can be mixed in any way. And manufacturers do not intend to mix oils from neighboring lines. Nevertheless, in practice, nothing terrible happens if two oils from adjacent lines are mixed. This will not worsen the operation of the hydraulic booster and will not reduce the resource.
|
Second group. This group includes oils that can only be mixed. They cannot be mixed with any other oils from the tables above and below. However, they can be used instead of other oils, provided that the system is completely flushed from the old oil.
Third group. These oils can only be used in power steering if a specific type of oil is indicated in the instructions for this car. These oils can only be mixed with each other. They cannot be mixed with other oils. Just as it is impossible to fill them into the power steering system if this type of oil is not indicated in the instructions. When in doubt, stop using these oils.
All power steering fluids differ from each other, not only in color, but also in their characteristics: oil composition, density, ductility, mechanical qualities and other hydraulic indicators.
Therefore, if you are worried about the long and stable operation of the hydraulic power steering of a car, you need to follow the operating rules, change the fluid in the power steering in time and fill in the best quality fluid there. For the operation of the power steering pump use two types of fluids- mineral or synthetic, in combination with additives that play a major role in the operation of the hydraulic booster.
It is quite difficult to determine the best fluid for power steering, because, according to the manufacturer's recommendation, it is better to pour the prescribed brand into a particular car. And since far from all drivers comply with this requirement, we will try to compile a list of the 15 best power steering fluids that caused the most confidence and collected a lot of positive feedback.
Notice that such liquids are poured into the power steering:
- conventional ATF, as in an automatic transmission;
- Dexron (II - VI), the same as ATP liquid, only a different set of additives;
- PSF (I-IV);
- MultiHF.
Therefore, the TOP of the best power steering fluids will consist of similar categories, respectively.
So, what is the best power steering fluid to choose from all those on the market?
| Category | Place | Name | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Multi Hydraulic Fluid | 1 | Motul Multi HF | from 1100 r. |
| 2 | Pentosin CHF 11S | from 800 rubles | |
| 3 | Comma PSF MVCHF | from 600 rubles | |
| 4 | RAVENOL Hydraulik PSF Fluid | from 500 r. | |
| 5 | LIQUI MOLY Zentralhydraulik-Oil | from 1000 r. | |
| Best Dextron | 1 | Motul DEXRON III | from 550 rubles |
| 2 | Febi 32600 DEXRON VI | from 450 rubles | |
| 3 | Mannol Dexron III Automatic Plus | from 220 rubles | |
| 4 | Castrol Transmax DEX-VI | from 600 rubles | |
| 5 | ENEOS Dexron ATF III | from. 400 r. | |
| The best ATF for power steering | 1 | Mobil ATF 320 Premium | from 360 rubles |
| 2 | Motul MultiATF | from 800 rubles | |
| 3 | Liqui Moly Top Tec ATF 1100 | from 400 rubles | |
| 4 | Formula Shell Multi-Vehicle ATF | from 400 rubles | |
| 5 | ZIC ATF III | from 350 rubles |
Note that PSF hydraulic fluids from automakers (VAG, Honda, Mitsubishs, Nissan, General Motors and others) do not participate, since each of them has its own original hydraulic booster oil. Let's compare and highlight only analogue liquids that are universal and suitable for most machines.
Best Multi HF
Hydraulic oil Motul Multi HF. Multifunctional and high-tech synthetic green fluid for hydraulic systems. It was developed specifically for the latest generation of cars that are equipped with such systems as: power steering, hydraulic shock absorbers, hydraulic opening roof, etc. Reduces system noise, especially at low temperatures. It has anti-wear, anti-corrosion and anti-foam properties.
It can be chosen as an alternative to the original PSF, as it is designed for hydraulic drives: power steering, shock absorbers, etc.
Has a long list of approvals:
- CHF 11 S, CHF 202 ;
- LDA, LDS;
- VW 521-46 (G002 000 / G004 000 M2);
- BMW 81.22.9.407.758;
- PORSCHE 000.043.203.33;
- MB 345.0;
- GM 1940 715/766/B 040 0070 (OPEL);
- FORD M2C204-A;
- VOLVO STD. 1273.36;
- MAN M3289 (3623/93);
- FENDT X902.011.622;
- Chrysler MS 11655;
- Peugeot H 50126;
- And many others.
Reviews
- - At my focus, there was a strong whistle from the power steering pump, after replacing it with that liquid, everything was removed as if by hand.
- - I drive a Chevrolet Aveo, the dextron liquid was filled, the pump squealed strongly, they recommended changing it, I chose this liquid, the steering wheel became a little tighter, but the squeal immediately disappeared.
- Pros:
- Has approvals for almost all car brands;
- Can be mixed with similar oils;
- Designed to work in hydraulic pumps under heavy load.
- Minuses:
- Very high price (from 1000 rubles)
Pentosin CHF 11S. Dark green synthetic high quality hydraulic fluid used by BMW, Ford, Chrysler, GM, Porsche, Saab and Volvo. It can be poured not only into the hydraulic booster, but also into the air suspension, shock absorbers and other car systems that provide for the filling of such a liquid. Pentosin CHF 11S Central Hydraulic Fluid is suitable for use in vehicles under extreme conditions, as it has an excellent temperature-viscosity balance and can operate from -40°C to 130°C. A distinctive feature is not only a high price, but also a fairly high fluidity - viscosity indicators are about 6-18 mm² / s (at 100 and 40 degrees). For example, for its counterparts from other manufacturers according to the FEBI, SWAG, Ravenol standard, they are 7-35 mm² / s. A solid track record of approvals from leading automakers.
This PSF of a popular brand from the assembly line is used by German auto giants. Without fear for the power steering system, you can use it in any car, except for Japanese ones.
Tolerances:
- DIN 51 524T3
- Audi/VW TL 52 146.00
- Ford WSS-M2C204-A
- MAN M3289
- Bentley RH 5000
- ZF TE-ML 02K
- GM/Opel
- Chrysler
- Dodge
Reviews
- - A good liquid, no chips, but very aggressive to aluminum, plastic and seals.
- - After the replacement on my VOLVO S60, a smoother steering and quiet operation of the power steering immediately became noticeable. The howling sounds disappeared when the power steering was in extreme positions.
- - I decided to choose Pentosin, although our price is 900 rubles. per liter, but confidence in the car is more important ... On the street again -38, the flight is normal.
- - I live in Novosibirsk, in severe winters the steering wheel spins like KRAZ, I had to try many different fluids, arranged a frosty test, took 8 popular brands with ATF, Dexron, PSF and CHF fluids. So the mineral Dextron became like plasticine, PSF was better, but Pentosin turned out to be the most liquid.
- Pros:
- An extremely inert fluid, it can be mixed with ATF, although it will only bring maximum benefit in its pure form.
- Sufficiently frost-resistant;
- It can be used both on VAZ cars and premium cars.
- Record holder for compatibility with different seals.
- Minuses:
- Does not eliminate pump noise if it was before replacement, but is only designed to maintain the previous state.
- Fairly high price of 800 rubles.
Comma PSF MVCHF. Semi-synthetic hydraulic fluid for power steering, central hydraulic systems and adjustable pneumohydraulic suspensions. It can also be used in some stability control systems, air conditioners, hydraulic systems for folding roofs. Compatible with Dexron, CHF11S and CHF202 specification fluids. Like all multi-fluids and some PSFs, it is green.
Suitable for some car models: Audi, Seat, VW, Skoda, BMW, Opel, Peugeot, Porsche, Mercedes, Mini, Rolls Royce, Bentley, Saab, Volvo, MAN which require this type of hydraulic fluid.
Conforms to the following specifications:
- VW/Audi G 002 000/TL52146
- BMW 81.22.9.407.758
- Opel B040.0070
- MB 345.00
- Porsche 000.043.203.33
- MAN 3623/93 CHF11S
- ISO 7308
- DIN 51 524T2
Reviews
- - Comma PSF is comparable to Mobil Synthetic ATF, it does not freeze in severe frost on the packaging they write up to -54, I don’t know, but -25 flows without problems.
- Pros:
- It has approvals for almost all European cars;
- It behaves well in the cold;
- Relatively low price for a quality product (from 600 rubles per liter);
- Conforms to Dexron specification.
- Minuses:
- Unlike similar PSF of the same company or other analogues, this type of hydraulic fluid must not be mixed with other ATF and power steering fluids!
RAVENOL Hydraulik PSF Fluid- hydraulic fluid from Germany. Fully synthetic. Unlike most Multi or PSF fluids, it is the same color as ATF - red. It has a consistently high viscosity index and high oxidation stability. It is produced on the basis of hydrocracked base oil with the addition of polyalphaolefins with the addition of a special complex of additives and inhibitors. It is a special semi-synthetic fluid for power steering of modern cars. In addition to the hydraulic booster, it is used in all types of transmission (manual transmission, automatic transmission, gearbox and axles). According to the manufacturer's request, it has high thermal stability and is able to withstand low temperatures down to -40°C.
If it is not possible to buy original hydraulic fluid, this is a good choice for a Korean or Japanese car at a nice price.
Compliance with the requirements:
- Citroen/Peugeot 9735EJ for C-Crosser/9735EJ for PEUGEOT 4007
- Ford WSA-M2C195-A
- HONDA PSF-S
- Hyundai PSF-3
- KIA PSF III
- MAZDA PSF
- MITSUBISHI DIAMOON PSF-2M
- Subaru PS Fluid
- Toyota PSF-EH
Reviews
- - I changed it on my Hyundai Santa Fe, filled it instead of the original, because I see no reason to overpay twice. Everything is fine. The pump is not noisy.
- Pros:
- Neutral with respect to sealing rubber materials and non-ferrous metals;
- It has a stable oil film that can protect parts in any extreme temperatures;
- Democratic price up to 500 rubles. per litre.
- Minuses:
- It has approvals mainly only from the Korean and Japanese automakers.
LIQUI MOLY Zentralhydraulik-Oil- green hydraulic oil, is a fully synthetic fluid with a zinc-free additive package. It was developed in Germany and guarantees the flawless operation of such hydraulic systems as: power steering, hydropneumatic suspension, shock absorbers, support for an active engine damping system. It has a multi-purpose application, but not all major major European car manufacturers and does not have approvals from Japanese and Korean car factories.
Can also be used in systems designed for traditional ATF oils. The product achieves the greatest efficiency when it is not mixed with other liquids.
A good liquid, which you can not be afraid to pour into many European cars, is simply indispensable in regions with harsh winters, but the price tag makes it inaccessible for many.
Complies with tolerances:
- VW TL 52146 (G002 000/G004 000)
- BMW 81 22 9 407 758
- Fiat 9.55550-AG3
- Citroen LHM
- Ford WSSM2C 204-A
- Opel 1940 766
- MB 345.0
- ZF TE-ML 02K
Reviews
- - I live in the north, I drive a Cadillac SRX when there were problems with hydraulics at -40, I tried to fill in Zentralhydraulik-Oil, although there is no permit, but only Ford, I took a chance, I drive everything OK for the fourth winter.
- - I have a BMW, I used to fill in the original Pentosin CHF 11S, and since last winter I switched to this liquid, the steering wheel turns much easier than on ATF.
- - On his Opel I drove 27 thousand km in a year in a temperature range from -43 to + 42 ° C. The power steering does not buzz at startup, but in the summer it seemed that the liquid was rather liquid, since when the steering wheel was rotated in place, there was a feeling of friction of the shaft against the rubber.
- Pros:
- Good viscosity characteristics in the widest temperature range;
- Versatility of application.
- Minuses:
- As for the price tag of 1000 rubles. and with good characteristics, has a small number of approvals and recommendations for use in different brands of cars.
Best Dexron Liquids
Semi-synthetic transmission fluid Motul DEXRON III is a product of technosynthesis. Red oil is intended for any systems where a DEXRON and MERCON fluid is required, namely: automatic transmissions, power steering, hydrostatic transmission. Motul DEXRON III flows easily in extreme cold and has a stable oil film even at high temperatures. This gear oil can be used where DEXRON II D, DEXRON II E and DEXRON III fluids are recommended.
Dextron 3 from Motul competes with the original from GM, and even surpasses it.
Conforms to standards:
- GENERAL MOTORS DEXRON III G
- FORD MERCON
- MB 236.5
- ALLISON C-4 – CATERPILLAR TO-2
Price from 550 rubles.
Reviews
- - Replaced on my Mazda CX-7 now the steering wheel can be turned literally with one finger.
- Pros:
- The ability to cope with its task in a wide range of temperatures;
- Applicability in power steering of several classes Dextron.
- Minuses:
- Not seen.
Febi 32600 DEXRON VI for the most demanding automatic transmissions and steering columns with power steering, providing for the filling of transmission fluid class Dexron 6. Also recommended for replacement in mechanisms requiring oil DEXRON II and DEXRON III. Manufactured (and bottled) in Germany from high quality base oils and the latest generation of additives. Of all the power steering fluids available, ATF Dexron has the most suitable viscosity for power steering applications as an alternative to the dedicated PSF fluid.
Febi 32600 is the best analogue of the original fluid in both automatic transmissions and power steering of German automakers.
Has a number of the latest approvals:
- DEXRON VI
- VOITH H55.6335.3X
- Mercedes MB 236.41
- Opel 1940 184
- Vauxhall 93165414
- BMW 81 22 9 400 275 (and others)
Price from 450 r.
Reviews
- - I took it for my Opel Mokka, there are no complaints or any changes for the worse. Good oil for a reasonable price.
- - I changed the fluid in the BMW E46 gur, immediately took Pentosin, but after a week the steering wheel began to turn hard, changed it again but on Febi 32600, it has been on it for more than a year, everything is fine.
- Pros:
- May be substituted for lower grade Dextron fluid;
- It has a good degree of viscosity for universal ATF in a box and power steering.
- Minuses:
- Tolerances only from American and European auto giants.
Mannol Dexron III Automatic Plus is a universal all-weather gear oil. Designed for use in automatic transmissions, rotation converters, power steering and hydraulic clutches. Like all liquids, Dexron and Mercon are red in color. Carefully selected additives and synthetic components provide the best frictional properties at the time of gear changes, excellent low-temperature characteristics, high antioxidant and chemical stability throughout the entire service life. It has good anti-foaming and air-displacing properties. The manufacturer claims that the transmission fluid is chemically neutral to any sealing materials, but tests have shown that it causes corrosion of copper alloy parts. Made in Germany.
The product has approvals:
- ALLISON C4/TES 389
- CATERPILLAR TO-2
- FORD MERCON V
- FORD M2C138-CJ/M2C166-H
- GM DEXRON III H/G/F
- MB 236.1
- PSF applications
- VOITH G.607
- ZF-TE-ML 09/11/14
Price from 220 rubles.
Reviews
- - I pour Mannol Automatic Plus into my Volga, it withstands frosts of minus 30, there are no complaints about sounds or difficulties in turning the steering wheel, the operation of the hydraulic booster on this fluid is quiet.
- - I have been using MANNOL ATF Dexron III in power steering for two years now, there are no problems.
- Pros:
- Low dependence of viscosity on operating temperature;
- Low price.
- Minuses:
- Aggressive to copper alloys.
Castrol DEXRON VI- red transmission fluid for automatic transmissions. Low-viscosity gear oil designed to work in modern automatic transmissions with maximum fuel efficiency. Manufactured in Germany from high quality base oils with a balanced additive package. It has Ford (Mercon LV) and GM (Dexron VI) approvals and exceeds the Japanese JASO 1A standard.
If it is not possible to buy the original Dexron ATF for a Japanese or Korean car, then Castrol Dexron 6 is a worthy replacement.
Specification:
- Toyota T, T II, T III, T IV, WS
- Nissan Matic D, J, S
- Mitsubishi SP II, IIM, III, PA, J3, SP IV
- Mazda ATF M-III, M-V, JWS 3317, FZ
- Subaru F6, Red 1
- Daihatsu AMMIX ATF D-III Multi, D3-SP
- Suzuki AT Oil 5D06, 2384K, JWS 3314, JWS 3317
- Hyundai/Kia SP III, SP IV
- Honda/Acura DW 1/Z 1
Price From 600 rub.
Reviews
- - They write on my Aveo that Dextron 6 needs to be poured into the power steering, I took it in the Castrol Transmax DEX-VI store, it seems like only for automatic transmission, they said it’s good for the hydra, as it was regulated by pricing policy, so that not the cheapest but also expensive money it's a pity. There is very little information and feedback on this liquid, but I have no complaints, the steering wheel turns without sounds and difficulties.
- Pros:
- An additive package that provides good protection against corrosion of copper alloys;
- Conforms to many specifications of the majority of world automakers.
- Minuses:
- There is no information on the use in hydraulic transmissions and power steering.
Transmission oil ENEOS Dexron ATF III can be used in Step-tronic, Tip-tronic, automatic transmission and power steering systems. High thermal-oxidative stability is able to ensure the purity of the transmission for more than 50 thousand kilometers. Red liquid ENEOS Dexron III, reminiscent of raspberry-cherry syrup, contains special antifoam additives with good air-displacing properties. Conforms to the latest requirements of GM Dexron manufacturers. It is more often found on sale in 4-liter cans, but liter cans are also found. The manufacturer may be Korea or Japan. Frost resistance at the level of -46 ° С.
If you choose oil for an automatic transmission, then ENEOS ATF Dexron III could be in the top three, but as an analogue for power steering, it only closes the top five fluids.
The list of tolerances and specifications is small:
- DEXRON III;
- G34088;
- Allison C-3, C-4;
- Caterpillar: TO-2.
Price from 400 r. for a can of 0.94 liters.
Reviews
- - I have been using it for 3 years, I changed both in the box and in the power steering for Mitsubishi Lancer X, Mazda Familia, excellent oil, does not lose its properties.
- - I took Daewoo Espero for replacement in automatic transmission, after partial filling I have been driving for more than six months, I don’t see any problems.
- - I poured Santa Fe into the box, as for me Mobile is better, it seems to be losing its properties faster, but this is only relative to automatic transmission, I have not tried how it behaves in power steering.
- Pros:
- One of the best lubricating properties;
- It tolerates very low temperatures well.
- Minuses:
- Aggressive to copper alloy parts.
The best ATF fluids for power steering
Liquid Mobil ATF 320 Premium has a mineral composition. Place of application - automatic transmission and power steering, which require oils of the Dexron III level. The product is designed for freezing temperatures of 30-35 degrees below zero. Miscible with red Dextron 3 grade ATP fluids. Compatible with all common seal materials used in transmissions.
Mobile ATF 320 will not only be an excellent choice as an analogue for pouring into an automatic box, but also a good option, in terms of its behavior and characteristics, in the power steering system.
Specifications:
- ATF Dexron III
- GM Dexron III
- ZF TE-ML 04D
- Ford Mercon M931220
The price starts from 360 r.
What fluid to fill in Dexron III ATF Multi HF power steering? This question worries many beginners, as well as quite experienced drivers! The thing is that, as such, it is very difficult to find specialized fluids for power steering on the automotive market, therefore, on the advice of forums or acquaintances, they pour into the power steering fluid reservoir:
- Dexron (II - VI), the same as ATP liquid, only a different set of additives;
- PSF (I-IV);
- conventional ATF, as in an automatic transmission;
- MultiHF.
In the people, oils for the power steering system are distinguished by color. However, the real differences are not in color, but in the composition of oils, their viscosity, type of base, additives. Oils of the same color can be completely different and not even mix. To say that if red oil is poured in, then another red oil can be added is completely wrong.
Power Steering Fluid Color and Specification Chart
In order to better understand how power steering fluids differ from each other, I offer you the following table:
I would also like to note that, in addition to specialized fluids, they are poured into the power steering: Therefore, when compiling our rating, this factor was also taken into account!
What is the difference between Dexron III and ATF
In fact, the properties of Dexron III and ATF are almost the same. But for our winters it is better to use 3. It tans a little less in the cold.
You can replace Dextron 2 with Dextron3, but not vice versa! Automatic transmission is not the part of the car that tolerates it!
Rating of fluids for power steering 2018 - 2019 in tables
Automatic transmission oils (ATF) when poured into the power steering have the same functions as those for power steering fluids, the function of increasing the static friction of the clutches (depending on the material of the clutches), the function of reducing the wear of the clutches.
| Rating of ATF fluids for GUR 2018 - 2019 | 1 | Formula Shell Multi-Vehicle ATF | from 360 rubles |
| 2 | Motul MultiATF | from 800 rubles | |
| 3 | ZIC ATF III | from 400 rubles | |
| 4 | Mobil ATF 320 Premium | from 400 rubles | |
| 5 | Liqui Moly Top Tec ATF 1100 | from 350 rubles |
Mobil ATF 320 Premium fluid has a mineral composition. Place of application - automatic transmission and power steering, which require oils of the Dexron III level. The product is designed for freezing temperatures of 30-35 degrees below zero. Miscible with red Dextron 3 grade ATP fluids. Compatible with all common seal materials used in transmissions.
The best power steering fluids (PSF)
If you intend to pour PSF fluid into the power steering, then you will need to consider the following: the fluid acts as a working fluid that transfers pressure from the pump to the piston, lubricating function, anti-corrosion function, heat transfer to cool the system.
| Place | Name/ Price | |
| 1 | RAVENOL Hydraulik PSF Fluid | from 1100 r. |
| 2 | Pentosin CHF 11S | from 800 rubles |
| 3 | Motul Multi HF | from 600 rubles |
| 4 | Comma PSF MVCHF | from 500 r. |
| 5 | LIQUI MOLY Zentralhydraulik-Oil | from 1000 r |
RAVENOL Hydraulik PSF Fluid is a hydraulic fluid from Germany. Fully synthetic. Unlike most Multi or PSF fluids, it is the same color as ATF - red. It has a consistently high viscosity index and high oxidation stability. It is produced on the basis of hydrocracked base oil with the addition of polyalphaolefins with the addition of a special complex of additives and inhibitors. It is a special semi-synthetic fluid for power steering of modern cars. In addition to the hydraulic booster, it is used in all types of transmission (manual transmission, automatic transmission, gearbox and axles). According to the manufacturer's request, it has high thermal stability and is able to withstand low temperatures down to -40°C.
The best power steering fluids Dextron
The Dexron family was originally developed for use as hydraulic oils in automatic transmissions (automatic transmissions). Therefore, sometimes these oils are called transmission oils, which causes confusion, since transmission oils used to mean thick oils of the GL-5, GL-4, TAD-17, TAP-15 brands for gearboxes and rear axles with hypoid gears. Hydraulic oils are much thinner than gear oils. It is better to call them ATPs. ATF stands for Automatic Transmission Fluid (literally - Fluid for automatic transmissions - that is, automatic transmissions)
| 1 | Mannol Dexron III Automatic Plus | from 550 rubles |
| 2 | ENEOS Dexron ATF III | from 450 rubles |
| 3 | Castrol Transmax DEX-VI | from 220 rubles |
| 4 | Motul DEXRON III | from 600 rubles |
| 5 | Febi 32600 DEXRON VI | from. 400 r. |
Semi-synthetic transmission fluid Motul DEXRON III is a product of technosynthesis. Red oil is intended for any systems where a DEXRON and MERCON fluid is required, namely: automatic transmissions, power steering, hydrostatic transmission. Motul DEXRON III flows easily in extreme cold and has a stable oil film even at high temperatures. This gear oil can be used where DEXRON II D, DEXRON II E and DEXRON III fluids are recommended.
Which is better for power steering: mineral oils or synthetics
Long-standing disputes about which is better - synthetics or mineral water for the power steering system are not appropriate. The fact is that in the power steering, as nowhere else, there are a lot of rubber parts. Synthetic oils have a worse effect on the resource of rubber parts based on natural rubbers (almost all types of rubbers), due to their chemical aggressiveness. In order to fill synthetic oils into the power steering system, its rubber parts must be designed for synthetic oils and have a special composition.
Rare cars use synthetic oils for power steering! But synthetic oils are often used in automatic transmissions. Pour only mineral water into the power steering system, unless synthetic oil is specifically indicated in the instructions!
Oil difference table for power steering PSF and ATF
| Oils for power steering (PSF): | Automatic transmission oils (ATF): | |
Functions of hydraulic fluid | 1) the liquid acts as a working fluid that transfers pressure from the pump to the piston | 1) the same functions as for power steering fluids |
1) friction reducing additives (metal-metal, metal-rubber, metal-fluoroplastic) | 1) the same additives as for power steering oils |
